A solar charge controller acts like a regulator which delivers power from the PV array to system loads as well as the battery bank. In case the battery bank becomes full, this controller will cut down the charging current so that the required voltage level can be maintained. The solar charge controller tries to protect your battery by regulating the voltage. Since you know that the battery is the most expensive part of a power generation system, so it is important that you must protect it from overcharging or undercharging. This small yet beneficial device helps you to protect your battery from such situations. You must also understand that running the batteries in their ‘partial state of charge’ can also negatively affect the life of the batteries. The plates of a lead-acid battery become sulfated if they perform for extended periods with a partial state of charge. This greatly reduces life expectancy. If you run down the batteries to zero, it can also kill the battery. So, again you need to get a load controller that can help you save your batteries. Qualities of Solar Charge Controllers Read below to know some of the interesting qualities and facts about a solar charge controller-
Types of Solar Charge Controllers There are two main types of solar charge controllers-
The solar charge controller should be designed in such a way that they can take up a lot of heat and manage it properly. These controllers are recommended because they offer higher reliability, have a longer life, and offer greater efficiency. Now is the time when everybody wants to go solar because it helps in generating clean power, is cost-friendly, and allows people to claim subsidies. Solar panels for apartments have also become very common these days because people understand the benefit of generating power using natural resources like the energy harnessed from the sun.
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A solar charge controller is small but an important device that is used to control the variation of power that is produced from the solar panel so that the battery can be charged as well as the DC Load can run easily. It can be taken as a voltage and/or current regulator that controls batteries from overcharging. This controller is used to regulate the current and voltage that comes from the solar panels and goes to the battery. Since it is a small device, the solar charging controller cost is nominal.
Application of Solar Charge Controller A solar charge controller is used in solar applications and is also termed a solar battery charger. Its main function is to regulate the current and voltage to prevent overcharging and discharging. Types of Solar Charge Controllers There are two main types of solar charge controllers-
A basic rule for solar installation is that to get the best results, you should make sure that the products are of excellent quality. This also means that every component of your products whether it is small or big should be perfect so that the production capacity is optimal. You can even test your solar charge controller using a multimeter. For doing this you need to disconnect the solar panel and track the voltage you get during sunlight. You can even examine the output voltage by measuring the terminal output voltage. The Efficiency of The Solar Charge Controller The advanced solar charge controller is microprocessor-controlled and can adjust the output that goes inside the battery. This is one of the most important features of the charge controller as it helps to increase solar panel efficiency. So, this allows the controller to generate 15-30% more energy as compared to other controllers. This makes the solar charging controller price worth it. Price Range The price range of a solar charge controller is somewhere between Rs 1000 to Rs 9000. If you want to go for a medium-range you can pick up the ones that are around Rs 2000 to Rs 4000. In case you decide to install a solar system in India and you have budget constraints, you can choose commercial solar financing options as well. It is always better to buy sola components from reputed brands because they offer reliable products and also give a warranty on the products. If you buy the wrong components, your entire solar system can come to a standstill. Here, we can conclude that the solar charging controller price is worth it. A solar inverter is a device that is used to convert the direct current from the solar panels into alternating current that is later used by domestic and commercial appliances. A solar inverter is considered the most critical component of the solar power system as it can convert power from the sun into more useful energy. Many people refer to the solar inverter as the brain of a solar system which is why they are even ready to pay a higher solar inverter price for house. These days’ solar inverters have become smarter and intelligent. Planning to Install a Solar Inverter in Your Home? Here are Some of The Advantages-
As per the observation, 25-30% of the total solar system cost is contributed by the solar inverters. Based on the technology, the price of the solar inverter varies from Rs 6 to Rs 20 per watt. The factors that affect the price of the solar inverter includes-
Given below are some of the features of solar inverters that you might consider before spending on one.
Sun is the closest to the earth that offers an abundance of energy. Researchers and scientists came up with a way to use this energy to produce electricity. Since solar energy is found in abundance and is a renewable form of energy; it offers a clean option to produce power. Hence, the concept of the solar systems, solar inverters, and batteries came into existence.
A solar inverter is considered the most important component of the solar system. It helps in the conversion of direct current into alternating current so that it can be directly used by the appliances at home. Another important component to be considered is the solar inverter battery. It stores energy from a solar PV system and helps you to use this energy later like during nighttime when the panels are not able to produce energy. Features of a Solar Inverter Battery
As explained before, excessive energy from the solar system gets deposited into the battery. This surplus energy can be used when your panels aren’t generating enough electricity. When you choose the type of battery for energy storage, consider the below-mentioned factors-
Once you buy an inverter that is armed with the latest technology, your next quick decision would be to buy the best inverter battery for your home. Though all the batteries nearly look the same but there is a difference between the ones that are reliable versus the ones that are more affordable. The points given below will serve as a handy guide for you in deciding on a decent battery that won’t even hurt your pocket too much and will serve you well in the long run. 1. Maintenance No matter whatever battery you buy, it will demand some amount of maintenance at periodic intervals. But in general, tubular batteries require less maintenance than flat plate batteries because of how they are designed. They can even hold a lot of distilled water. 2. Wet Cell vs. Sealed Lead Acid Sealed Lead Acid is more expensive than Wet Cell batteries while these require a higher amount of maintenance. Another point here is SLA batteries have a shorter lifespan and they require less maintenance but they cost more. In a nutshell, SLA batteries are more expensive but they usually offer a better return on investment than wet cell batteries. 3. Weight It is advised that you should check the weight of the batteries before buying them. In theory, it is said that a heavier battery will use higher electrolyte plates which in turn will give them a longer lifespan. 4. Tubular Vs. Flat Plate If you want to pick the best inverter battery then you should know the difference between tubular batteries and Flat Plate batteries. If you have limited space, the flat plate battery is a better choice because they are smaller. They will fit into any space. Flat plate batteries are said to have a smaller service life than tubular batteries because of the way they are constructed. Tubular batteries have a high service life but at the same time, they require more recharge time after a long power cut as compared to flat plate batteries. In India, where there are frequent power cuts, tubular batteries are preferred because of long power cut situations. In case you experience frequent but short power cuts, you can go for flat plate batteries. No matter what type of battery you opt for, the performance, construction, and life of any battery depends upon the manufacturing process robustness and purity of raw material used. So, if you wish to go for the best inverter battery for your home or office, you should choose from reputed brands which make efficient and reliable batteries. Batteries are the powerhouse of the inverter. So, the battery you choose should match up to your load requirement so that you can get the desired backup in case there is a power cut. In case your load requirement is higher and cannot be fulfilled with a single battery, you can go for a double battery inverter. In this inverter, 2 batteries are fitted in a series and can help you run multiple appliances and also allow you to manage your important tasks effectively. Solar power is recognized internationally as the best source of clean, green electricity for homes. Once you set up your own solar power system, you can get free electricity for your home and you’ll never have to worry about high electricity bills again. Today apartment complexes are installing solar panels on their parking covers and independent bungalows are installing solar panels on their roof tops. If you’re considering a solar power system for your home, here are some of the most common mistakes people make while installing a solar panel for home. Installing the Panels in a Shaded Area Solar panels need direct sunlight to generate electricity. The more sunlight that falls on the panels, the more electricity they can generate. Thus, their efficiency is directly proportional the sunlight falling on them. If you install the panels in a spot that’s shaded by a tree or a billboard, it won’t be as effective as it could be. Similarly, when you install the solar panels, you must have an idea of whether something will come up in the future that could shade the panels and avoid such spots. Installing the Solar Panel For Home on a Normal Iron Stand Solar panels need to be installed at an angle. The ideal angle depends on your location. If you live in the southern part of India, an angle of 12-18 degrees would be ideal but if you live in north India, the panels will have to be installed at an angle of 30-36 degrees. Thus, irrespective of whether your roof is flat or sloping, you would need a stand. One of the first safety tips for solar installation is that you should not use a regular stand made from iron. This will not be able to take the weight of the panels when subjected to winds. It is also more susceptible to rust and wear and tear. The panel mounting structure must be made from GIA and must be grounded with a 4 x 4 inch foundation. You should also ensure that the stand provides earthing for the panels. Overtightening Nuts and Bolts Since the solar panels will be exposed to the elements, the connections cannot be glued and instead must be screwed in place with nots and bolts. One of the most common mistakes DIY solar panel installers make is overtightening the nuts and bolts. Overtightening these connection can put stress on the frame and make it bend or break. At the same time, you cannot afford to leave the nuts and bolts loose either. Make sure all seals are tight enough to stay secure but not overtight. Ideally, get your solar panel for home installed by an expert. They will ensure you don’t make any of the above mistakes and rest assured that that solar power system can operate at its highest efficiency levels. Once installed and operational, the panels should last for at least 25 years. That’s almost 3 decades of not having to worry about paying electricity bills every month. So, are you ready to go solar? Dependency on inverter have gradually increased due to frequent power outages and load shedding. Today, inverters have become one of the most used utility devices that help in smooth operation of both daily household and business. The demand for inverter surges during summer as power outage is common during these months. But what if your inverter battery is not efficient enough to meet your power backup requirements? Here is the ultimate guide to choosing the best inverter battery. 1. Understand Your Power Requirements To get the best inverter battery, you first need to understand why exactly do you need it? If you are buying an inverter for your home, then you would need battery backup for some of the regularly used appliances, whereas in offices, you will need energy backup for numerous computers, fans, lights, electric door locks etc. Depending on your requirement, the capacity of inverter battery changes. Make a note of all of the appliances that you will need in your home or offices, and write down their energy consumption. This will help you in choosing the right battery for your inverter. 2. Comprehend Your Inverter’s VR Rating Volt Ampere rating or VA rating is the evaluation of voltage and current supplied by the inverter to various electrical appliances. Since, most inverter provide an efficiency of 60-80%, so the requirements are higher than the supply. This gap is known as power factor. To calculate your inverter’s VA rating, you have to divide power requirements (in Watts) by power factor. Based on the VA rating of your inverter, you can choose a battery that is compatible with your inverter. 3. Consider the Battery Size Since battery is the backbone of an inverter, you need to ensure that the battery is compatible with the inverter. The capacity of battery will decide how many hours it can run all your connected appliances. The battery capacity ranges from 60AH to 220AH, so it is important to choose the battery that is compatible with your inverter. Depending on your energy backup requirements, it is essential that you calculate your power consumption to get the best inverter battery. 4. Choose From Various Types of Batteries There are different types of batteries available in the market and depending on your requirement you can choose one of them. Flat plate batteries are ideal for areas where power cuts are least common phenomenon, whereas the areas with frequent power cuts need tubular batteries. Under tubular batteries, you can get further bifurcations - short tubular and tall tubular batteries. These are different in size, efficiency, maintenance, life range and ease of installation. To get the best outcome from your inverter, you need to know your power backup requirements. Also Read: Steps to Top-Up Water in Inverter Battery – Dos and Don’ts With these points in mind, you can easily choose the best inverter battery for your home or your business. Along with these common points, it is equally important to consider customer support and warranty offered by the manufacture as well as seller. The occurrence of power cuts is unavoidable and can be highly frustrating if it is a frequent affair.To combat this frustrating experience, it becomes important to have a home inverter with battery. Price of the product will vary from one company to another. Along with the price, there are various factors like capacity, size, warranty, etc. are accounted for when selecting a home inverter. This article, alerts you about some mistakes that need to be avoided when taking this decision. Here is a list of mistakes that can cost you a lot in the long run and should be avoided. 1.Not Considering Your Power Requirements This is one of the most important factors to consider while choosing a home inverter. Still, there are people who rush towards buying a new inverter without even estimating their power requirements. If you don’t take an average of your power backup requirements, you will end up buying an inverter that’s either more or less than your actual requirements. Hence, it is important to consider your total power consumption so that you can choose a suitable inverter. 2.Buying from Unauthorised Dealers There might be many local shopkeepers that offer a wide range of inverters and other energy devices, but not all of them may be authorised dealers. There are many people who purchase an inverter from unauthorised dealers and regret the decision later. Always ensure that you buy the inverter from a registered and authorised dealer who provides a guarantee for the sold inverter. The dealer will also give you safety features, good service, and decent warranty periods for the products. Ensure that you are getting genuine spare parts while buying the inverter from the manufacturer. This ensures that you are buying from a verified manufacturer. 3.Not Checking the Warranty There are various companies that give decent warranties on the inverter, its battery, for functioning as well as a manufacturing defect. Many people often rush while choosing a home inverter and ignore the warranty periods being offered by the dealers. These warranties and their clauses are hard to understand, but still, you shouldn’t make the mistake of ignoring the warranty period. Take your time to understand the manufacturer’s as well as the dealer’s warranty against any damage that can occur in the future. 4.Staying Price-Conscious Price tends to be the most important deciding factor when purchasing a home inverter with battery. Cost, however, should not determine your final decision. This is one of the costliest mistakes that might make you regret your decision later. Staying price-conscious and ignoring every other factor will lead you to purchase a product that’s not genuine, under warranty or the newest model. While considering your budget is an important factor, you should also focus on the quality and features of the home inverter. Also Read: Steps to Top-Up Water in Inverter Battery – Dos and Don’ts Choosing a suitable home inverter with battery, price, warranty, authorised dealership, and power requirements need to be checked. However, if you avoid the mentioned mistakes and run thorough research, then you can easily make a well-informed purchase. Always choose a manufacturer that offers after-sales service as well as timely assistance to solve technical glitches. A solar battery is also known as solar battery storage and is a device that stores energy generated from the solar panel for future use. There are different types of solar batteries available today, like the tall tubular solar battery and lithium-ion solar battery. The solar battery price depends on the type of battery that you choose. The major contributors to the cost of these solar batteries are the chemical substances and plates that define the battery life cycle, usable capacity, and storage capacity. Also, you need to know that the price of solar batteries is largely dependent upon these major considerations-
Solar battery price in India It has been predicted that, just the way prices of solar panels have fallen in the last few years, the solar battery price is also likely to fall in the years to come. In India, solar battery price usually starts from INR 3000 for 20AH rating and can go up to INR 12,000 for 200 AH rating. Choosing the right solar battery It is very important to choose the right solar battery so that the price that you pay for it seems worth it. While choosing the right solar battery, you should take care of the following points-
Are solar batteries worth it? Whenever you pay a good price for anything, you should always consider if buying that product is worth the investment you are making or not. The same is the case with solar batteries. If you have solar batteries, you can easily store any excess solar energy and use it when the sun goes down. As mentioned earlier, with advancement in technology, the prices of these batteries will go down and it will make more sense for people to invest in these solar batteries and save their electricity bills. The solar batteries that come with long service life, short charging time, and a high depth of discharge are considered the best and are worth it. Conclusion You should know that a well-designed solar system can ensure reduced utility bills without solar batteries. But once your solar system is battery ready, opting for the solar battery will help you save on bills even further. While considering if the solar battery price is reasonable and justified or not, you should think of some specifications such as technology, the life cycle of the battery, the brand, and the maintenance involved. An evaluation of warranties and the quality of the batteries can further act as a guiding force while making your decision. One of the most common questions people ask when installing a solar power system is how will the system produce electricity at night? The answer- it doesn’t. Since the system relies on the sun’s energy, it cannot produce electricity at night or when the sun is hidden behind clouds. The good news is that this does not mean that your home will not have power during the night. This is where solar net metering comes in. Here’s everything you need to know about it.
How does it work? You can have a solar power system and still be connected to the main power grid. The solar panels will generate power during the day. However, most homes use minimal power during this time. The highest amount of power is typically produced in the afternoons but the highest power consumption is in the late evening after sunset. Through solar net metering, the excess power produced during the day can be transferred to the main power grid. An easy way to explain this is that the power meter starts working in reverse. As power is transferred to the main power grid, you get credits to your account. After sunset, when the solar panels cannot produce any more electricity, your home will be powered by electricity distributed from the main power grid. The credits in your account against the electricity generated by your solar panels will be used to account for the power you use. Thus, even though you are still using some power from the main power grid, you will still have negligible electricity bills to pay. What happens if you generate more power than you use? Solar panels typically generate more power during the summer. If you generate more power than you use, you will not get a cheque from the power grid. Instead, the credits will accumulate in your account. This can then be used to pay for electricity consumed in months when your solar panels create very little power such as during the monsoons or in the winter. Net metering vs off-grid systems Net metering is not the only option for solar power systems. You can also choose to go ‘off the grid’. This means that your home will not be connected to the main power grid but instead will be connected to a battery. The battery can take care of hourly fluctuations in the amount of power generated and maybe even a night but may not be able to account for seasonal differences. Thus, it may not be the most efficient system. With solar net metering, you can run your home by generating clean electricity and contribute to society at the same time. It’s a small step that goes a long way towards fighting global warming and reducing your carbon footprint. It also helps your neighbors as the excess power you supply to the main power grid can be distributed amongst your neighbors and thus give them access to clean energy as well. Related Post: What is Solar Net Metering and How Can it Help You? ( Click here ) |